The cooperative NZ Summerfresh Ltd holds the exclusive New Zealand rights to commercialize NZ Summer series apricots specially bred in New Zealand and has announced the brand names of the first five varieties. Read full Fresh Plaza article HERE

Starting in January and running until March, in certain markets South Africa is the sole supplier of apricots worldwide. "Many farmers are interested due to the significant shortage in apricots in the market, especially after Christmas and demand from everywhere in the world is amazing," says Michael Oosthuizen, International Plant Selection's representative in South Africa. Read Full Fresh Plaza Article HERE 

WA Farm Direct and N&A Group will introduce the Ondine series of flat peach and flat nectarine varieties to the Australian market this summer. These delightful flat nectarines and peaches come from the orchards of Cobram in Victoria and Perth Hills in Western Australia. Available from December to March, they offer a unique taste experience that stonefruit lovers won't want to miss. Read Full Fresh Plaza Article HERE 

Ohio is dipping its toe into planar peaches.

Inspired by a recent International Fruit Tree Association tour of Michigan, two Ohio peach growers decided to try trellised, two-dimensional peach plantings, in hopes of boosting yields per acre and reducing the number of picks. Click HERE to read more - Good Fruit Grower 

With the onset of summer, New Zealand's local markets are now featuring the season's first summer fruits. Summerfruit NZ's newly appointed Chief Executive, Dean Smith, announced the commencement of the harvest season for cherries, nectarines, peaches, apricots, and plums. The early harvest has begun in the Hawke's Bay and Marlborough regions, with Central Otago expected to follow suit shortly. Click HERE for Full Article - Fresh Plaza 

Wine grape and stone fruit growers across South Australia's Riverland region are already counting the costs of a weekend of prolonged rainfall.

Bureau of Meteorology stations at Renmark and Loxton recorded 50 and 30 millimetres respectively, while some locals reported 42mm at Lyrup Heights, 57mm at Paringa, and 79mm at Lindsay Point. Click HERE for Full Article - ABC News